I started cleaning three years ago, because my personal situation had changed, and I needed a second income because I was struggling to keep up with climbing costs.  

For me a second job was not a choice, I needed it to supplement my income. I am lucky enough to have a home in Wainuiomata, but I have mortgage which is going up in December.

I decided to become a cleaning because I used do private house cleaning in Taranaki where I am from. I enjoy the work and take pride in the contribution that I make to keeping the school healthy and safe.

The rest of my team work really hard, and also have two jobs. They work as cleaners during the day, and at night. I take my hat off to them for the hard work they do just to get by.  

Cleaning schools is harder than other cleaning sites. The toilets, especially the boys, are especially gross and often are clogged up and overflowing. School cleaners really should be given a noise peg when they first start to keep the smell out.

The teachers at the school used to do a double take when they saw me cleaning, but now they admire me for the hard work I do to, because it can be tiring especially at the end of the term.

My supervisor tells me about how my teammates are struggling day to day, with their rent and ensuring that there is enough food on the table.  To be honest, its struggle we all face.

If was not for the board of trustees at Hutt Valley High school’s decision to ensure we got a living wage, my life and theirs would be so much harder.

This decision of the board makes us feel valued and gives us the little bit extra to get by.

I was shocked and surprised to learn that is rare to see school cleaners earning a living wage. That is why I back the Living Wage Schools Campaign!